UK greenhouse gas emissions decline but reliance on gas persists

In 2024, the UK's greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 3.5% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 371.4 million tonnes of carbon equivalent. This reduction marked a significant achievement, as emissions were reported to be 54.2% lower than levels recorded in 1990. The drop in emissions was prominently driven by changes in the electricity supply and industrial sectors, which accounted for 10% and 13% of total emissions respectively. A noteworthy factor was the acceleration of renewable electricity generation, which supplied over 50% of the country's power for the first time, leading to decreased consumption of coal and gas in power stations. The domestic transport sector emerged as the largest contributor to emissions in 2024, comprising 30% of the total, yet its emissions saw a slight decline of 1.5%. Conversely, the buildings and product use sector experienced an increase in emissions by 2.3%, primarily attributed to heightened gas consumption following an easing of energy costs from previous peaks associated with the energy crisis linked to the Ukraine conflict. The data release from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) highlighted a mixed picture in emissions trends, reflecting both progress and ongoing challenges in transitioning to sustainable energy sources. The UK government has committed to ambitious climate goals as part of its participation in the UN Paris Agreement, with targets aimed at reducing emissions by 68% by 2030 and 81% by 2035, based on 1990 figures. These efforts are integral to the country's broader objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Responding to the latest data, environmental advocates emphasized that while a reduction in emissions is a positive step, the UK remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, particularly gas, thereby advocating for a rapid transition towards renewable energy sources to mitigate costs and emissions further. The closure of the last operational coal-fired power station in the UK, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, marked a historic decline in coal usage, with reports indicating that 2024 saw the lowest coal consumption levels since 1666. As the energy landscape evolves, stakeholders within the renewable sector are urging government action to foster investments in wind and solar energy projects. The notable rise in renewable electricity generation played a crucial role in reducing overall emissions, indicating a pivotal moment in the UK’s journey towards a greener energy future.